Royal captures Moorpark tournament

Creber, McCoy lead way against host Moorpark

Royal High boys basketball coach Craig Griffin didn't think his team played up to its potential last week in its season-opening tournament.

Griffin was hoping to see a more inspired effort this week at the Moorpark Tournament.

His Highlanders delivered the desired result.

Sparked by a dominating first-half performance, Royal captured the tournament title with a 65-43 victory over Marmonte League foeMoorpark in the championship game on Saturday night at Moorpark High.

"You could tell we were a lot more pumped for this tournament and our heads were more in the game," Royal senior guard Weston Park said. "We played more as a team, and that is why we did so good. That is what it takes."

Royal (6-2) took charge from the start.

The Highlanders used a 12-0 run in the first quarter, punctuated by back-to-back baskets inside by Nick Creber, to grab the lead for good.

The Highlanders expanded their advantage to 21 points in the second quarter with a steady stream of transition baskets and shots in the paint.

Creber scored 16 of his game-high 18 points in the first half as Royal shot 20 of 33 (60.6 percent) from the field and committed only two turnovers.

"I think we came out and played with the focus necessary, so that was good to see us do that after last week," Griffin said. "It's good to see they were ready to go and playing the way we want to play."

Moorpark (5-2) made its only run in the third quarter, trimming the deficit to 12 points midway through. But Royal scored on threestraight possessions to end the threat and cruise the rest of the way to the title.

Royal held Moorpark to 31 percent (14 of 45) shooting from the field overall and took five charges, including three by Creber.

"Playing defense the way we did is going to be helpful if we are going to compete to win league," Griffin said. "You have to be tough, and it's good to see us doing those things like taking charges."

Both teams open league play Tuesday, and they will meet again in just 10 days. Royal would like to see the rematch play out like a rerun.

"We hit a little dip in the road last week, so this tournament was good for us to get back playing the way we want to play as ateam," Griffin said. "I think it shows if we play the right way good things will happen."